In the realm of realpolitik, ideological beliefs and religious connections frequently become secondary, while national interests emerge as the primary focus. Given the current state of relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, there exists a tangible risk of further deterioration in their relationship, potentially leading to an increase in hostilities between the two nations.

In Pakistan, it has been the norm to address issues only when they have ballooned into a full-blown crisis; be it the GB protests or the rights movement in AJK. Only few month have passed since the local population of GB had staged protests along similar lines. It remains to be seen whether the government’s steps satisfy the people in both regions in the long term.

The people of the region are ready for a long haul and warning the government not to turn this region into a conflict site like Balochistan. They are saying that despite many tactics and conspiracies, the GB people would continue their struggle till the acceptance of all their demands.

Overall, there is no political future for the PTI and its chief Imran Khan in the upcoming general elections. With relentless crackdown on the party, its leaders and supporters, the political space for the party has shrunk considerably.

The issue of wheat subsidy has opened a Pandora’s Box on the status of the region. As a disputed territory with meagre per capita hand holding the people are also resenting the way the government and other state institutions are acquiring land at mass scales which further reduces the land available for cultivation in the future.